A famous Hollywood ship is to dock in Liverpool to help raise funds for the fire-damaged Cutty Sark.

The 91ft-long tall ship The Black Pearl, of Pirates of the Caribbean fame, is a full-size replica of the original HMS Bounty.

It was built for the 1962 film Mutiny on the Bounty, starring Marlon Brando, which looked at the infamous Royal Navy mutiny of 1789 in the Southern Pacific ocean.

Bill Broadbent, harbour master for British Waterways, said: "We are thrilled to welcome this historic ship to Liverpool before she makes her world voyage.

"We're expecting lots of visitors this weekend as this is a once-in-a lifetime experience to board a vessel that has captured the imagination of millions on the silver screen."

Councillor Warren Bradley, leader of Liverpool City Council, said: "Liverpool has welcomed many great vessels in our 800 years but few are as famous as one that has starred as both HMS Bounty and The Black Pearl.

"Its appeal across the generations will make for a great day out at the Albert Dock this weekend."

The tall ship will dock at the South Quay of Canning, facing the Merseyside Maritime Museum, and will be open to visitors on Saturday, August 18.

The 19th-century tea clipper the Cutty Sark, moored in London, was ravaged by flames in a blaze on May 21.

Copyright Press Association 2007

----------------------------

Anyone else going?